Occupation of house to prevent the spread of infection.

24. (1) The Health Officer may, in case of emergency, with the sanction of the Collector, enter upon, occupy and use, or depute any person to enter upon, occupy and use any building or place which in the opinion of the Health Officer, is required, and is suitable for any purpose connected with the prevention or control of infection from an infectious disease: Provided that, if the building or place is occupied, notice shall be given in writing to the occupant, or be conspicuously affixed on such building or place, not less than thirty-six hours before it is entered upon. (2) The owner or lessee of such building or place shall be entitled to compensation for any damage or expenses incurred and to a reasonable rent for the period during which it has been occupied or used, for any of the purposes referred to in sub-section (1). Such compensation and rent shall be fixed by the Collector. (3) The Health Officer shall, when any such building or place ceases to be occupied or used for any of the purposes aforesaid, cause it to be thoroughly disinfected and cleansed.